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Lifeboats on Board: Ultimate Guide

August 29, 2024

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Lifeboats are the last line of defense when everything else goes wrong. Getting them right isn’t optional, SOLAS and the LSA Code spell out exactly what must be on board, where it sits, how it launches, and how crews drill. Here’s the clear, shipowner-ready breakdown.

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Regulations / Lifeboats / Power / Cost / Maintenance / Emergency Training

Regulations

What rules apply, who they apply to, and the exact carriage and launch standards that drive equipment choices.
SOLAS Chapter III LSA Code (MSC.48) Free-fall update: 1 Jan 2024 Bulk carriers: free-fall required
Carriage at a glance
Minimum survival craft you must carry by ship type. Widths use a fixed table layout so you can tune them.
Vessel type Lifeboats Liferafts Rescue boat
Passenger — international On each side: enclosed lifeboats ≥50% of persons (together ≥100%). Some capacity may be substituted by liferafts, but never less than 37.5% lifeboats per side. Additional rafts ≥25% of persons. Rafts served by launching appliances on both sides. Rescue boat required. Ro-Ro passenger ships need a fast rescue boat.
Passenger — short international Lifeboats ≥30% of persons (as practicable, on both sides). With rafts, total survival craft ≥100%. Extra rafts ≥25% of persons. Rescue boat required.
Cargo ship ≥85 m Lifeboats on each side with aggregate capacity ≥100% of persons. Alternative: one free-fall lifeboat aft for 100% + liferafts as required. Additional liferafts as per arrangement to ensure total capacity and side availability. At least one rescue boat (a lifeboat may be accepted if it meets recovery criteria).
Bulk carriers Free-fall lifeboat carriage mandated by SOLAS amendments in force since 2006 (see flag and class specifics). Rafts per arrangement to maintain overall capacity and side readiness. Rescue boat required.
Note: All required survival craft must be launchable with full complement and equipment within 30 minutes of the abandon-ship signal, after muster and donning.
Capacity caps
No lifeboat may be approved for more than 150 persons. Seating is based on defined dimensions and average mass assumptions (different for passenger vs cargo service). Free-fall boats determine capacity by available compliant seats.
Special cargoes
Oil, chemical and gas carriers carrying flammable cargoes require fire-protected lifeboats. Where toxic vapours may be present, lifeboats need a self-contained air support system.
Launching and headway
Lifeboats must be capable of launch and tow at up to 5 knots in calm water. Free-fall lifeboats are excluded from the 5-knot towing requirement under the 2024 LSA Code amendment.
Muster, embarkation and timing
  • Embarkation, launching and lighting arrangements must enable safe access and rapid deployment from designated stations.
  • All survival craft required for total persons on board must be launchable within 30 minutes after the abandon-ship signal once mustered and lifejackets donned.
  • Stowage: continuous readiness with two crew able to prepare in under 5 minutes. Rescue boats: launch in the shortest possible time.
Training, drills and maintenance — what the regs expect
  • Every crew member participates monthly in abandon-ship and fire drills. Passenger ships conduct weekly passenger-ship drills; cargo ships follow monthly frequency.
  • Weekly: visual readiness checks for survival craft and launching appliances; run lifeboat and rescue-boat engines ahead and astern.
  • Annual: thorough examination and operational tests by authorized personnel under MSC.402(96). Five-year: proof-load test of on-load release gear per SOLAS/LSA test standards.
Full maintenance procedures will be detailed in the Maintenance section of this guide.
Carriage math
Confirm persons on board and verify side-by-side capacity rules match your ship type and voyage class.
Special cases
If carrying flammable or toxic cargoes, ensure fire-protected or air-support lifeboats as applicable.
Launch performance
Verify 5-knot launch/tow capability where required. Free-fall boats are exempt from the tow test, but must meet free-fall performance standards.

Lifeboat Breakdown

Types, where they fit, and the spec points that drive compliant selection.
Totally Enclosed Lifeboat (TELB)
  • Full canopy with weather, spray and fire protection; common on cargo and passenger ships.
  • Capacity limited by LSA Code: not more than 150 persons per lifeboat.
  • Propulsion: fuel to run fully loaded at ~6 knots for ≥24 hours (LSA performance standard).
Free-Fall Lifeboat (FFLB)
  • Stern ramp launch for rapid clearance and protection from fire/explosion exposure.
  • Must make positive headway immediately after water entry and withstand high-G launch loads.
  • Widely fitted on bulk carriers and tankers; check flag/class specifics for arrangement nuances.
Partially Enclosed Lifeboat (PELB)
  • Rigid covers fore and aft plus foldable canopy provide weatherproof shelter when closed.
  • Lighter, simpler embarkation; less protection than fully enclosed in extreme conditions.
  • Seen on certain passenger/coastal service profiles where risk profile and routes justify.
Open Lifeboat (Legacy)
  • Generally not fitted on modern SOLAS ships; legacy units remain on some older vessels.
  • Manual/limited propulsion and minimal weather protection; modernization strongly advised.
Rescue Boat: quick distinction
  • Tasked to recover persons, marshal and tow liferafts; minimum 6-knot speed for ≥4 hours.
  • Fast rescue boats add higher performance for Ro-Ro passenger ships and offshore roles.
Capacity limit
No lifeboat approved for more than 150 persons. Free-fall capacity based on compliant seating count.
Propulsion endurance
Fuel to drive a fully loaded lifeboat at about 6 knots for at least 24 hours.
Rescue-boat duty
Retrieve persons, marshal rafts, and tow the largest raft at ≥2 knots; maintain ≥6 knots for ≥4 hours.
Free-fall performance
Immediate headway after entry; launch from certified height and withstand defined overload factors.
Selecting the right lifeboat
Type Launch Best placement Strengths Watch-outs
Totally Enclosed (TELB) Davit launch Passenger ships, cargo ships with side stations Shelter, fire protection variants for tankers, broad capacity range More complex davits and release gear; training and maintenance critical
Free-Fall (FFLB) Stern ramp Bulk carriers, tankers, offshore support Rapid launch, clears hazards fast, strong in harsh weather and fire exposure Requires specific stern geometry and crew training; certification height constraints
Partially Enclosed (PELB) Davit launch Short-sea and certain passenger services Simpler embarkation, lighter weight, still provides shelter when closed Less protection than TELB in severe weather and fire scenarios
Open (legacy) Davit or manual Older vessels only Simple systems Poor protection and propulsion; modernization recommended where still fitted
High fire/explosion exposure
Favor free-fall or fire-protected TELB. Verify air-support system if toxic vapours are credible.
Deck layout constraints
Limited stern space points to davit-launched TELB/PELB. Check outreach, trim/list envelopes.
Passenger operations
Enclosed boats on both sides sized to carriage math; add rafts to reach total capacity strategy.
Specs vary by flag, class and ship type. Always confirm final selection against your vessel’s SOLAS Chapter III and LSA Code approvals and the builder’s seating certificate.

Power

Engines, starting systems, endurance fuel math, and cold-weather fit-outs that keep boats launch-ready.
Lifeboats (TELB / Free-fall)
  • Inboard diesel engines with ahead/astern propulsion and ability to disengage propeller for towing or idle checks.
  • Fuel to drive a fully loaded boat ~6 knots for ≥24 hours (endurance standard).
  • Engine/transmission enclosed in a fire-retardant casing; noise reduced so shouted orders are audible.
Rescue boats
  • Inboard diesel or approved outboard; ≥6 knots for ≥4 hours; able to tow largest liferaft ≥2 knots.
  • Fast rescue boats add higher power/acceleration; capsize-stop and restart provisions apply.
Special cargoes (tankers/chem/gas)
  • Fire-protected lifeboats; where toxic vapours are credible, self-contained air support systems.
  • Confirm builder’s approvals for the specific hazard profile and spray system loads.
Starting & reliability standards
  • Two independent ways to crank: manual start, or power start with two independent rechargeable energy sources (e.g., dual batteries). Starting aids to be provided where needed.
  • Cold start proof: the engine + fuel must start at -15 °C within 2 minutes from start attempt (unless the flag approves a different temperature for constant warm-water trades).
  • Out-of-water run: engine must run ≥5 minutes at idle with the boat out of the water (simulating normal stowage).
  • Flood tolerance: engine must operate when the boat is flooded up to the crankshaft centreline.
  • Charging arrangements: means to recharge engine-start, radio and searchlight batteries after use.
Endurance fuel sizing (24-hour rule)
Use this to document compliance. Adjust widths in the colgroup.
Parameter Your entry Rule reference Compliance note
Required speed (loaded) ≥ 6 knots LSA lifeboat propulsion Record builder’s measured speed; verify after engine service.
Endurance at 6 knots ≥ 24 hours LSA lifeboat fuel endurance Fuel must remain usable across expected ambient temperature range.
Fuel consumption at 6 knots Document (L/h) from type approval / sea trial Builder data Size tank ≥ 24 × (consumption at 6 kn) + safety margin.
Towing duty (rescue boat) ≥ 6 kn for 4 h; tow largest raft ≥ 2 kn LSA rescue-boat performance Confirm separate fuel calc for rescue boat if fitted.
Cold start aids
Block heaters, winter-grade fuel/lubes, battery heaters/blankets sized to keep starting within the -15 °C/2-minute envelope.
Icing & stability
Boats must maintain positive GM with specified ice loads; provide means for ice removal on exposed surfaces and closures.
Charging strategy
Arrange alternator output and/or trickle chargers so start, radio and searchlight batteries can be recharged after drills.
Dual starts verified
Manual start or two independent rechargeable power sources function-tested; access not blocked by casing/seats.
Cold start record
Log last cold-start verification and ambient temp; keep aids and procedures posted at the station.
Out-of-water run
Idle ≥5 min with boat out of water demonstrated per test recommendation; gearbox engagement checked.
Tip: keep a one-page “Power Compliance Sheet” in the lifeboat’s document tube: fuel calc, measured speeds (with/without spray), battery IDs and change-out dates.

Cost

CapEx, installation, regulatory servicing, and ten-year TCO inputs you can tune per vessel.
Indicative purchase ranges
Public listings vary by capacity, spec, and approvals. Use these as ballpark anchors and verify with makers.
Item Typical capacity Indicative price Notes
Totally Enclosed Lifeboat (TELB) 50–150 persons ≈ US$26k–150k+ Capacity, fire-protected spec, and approvals drive spread.
Free-fall Lifeboat (FFLB) 10–90 persons ≈ US$20k–80k+ Launch height rating and hull length matter.
Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) package 6–15 persons ≈ US$20k–30k+ per set Engine, trailerable cradle, and davit options change price.
Lifeboat davit system Gravity or hydraulic ≈ £11k–26k+ per set Outreach, SWL, and maker approvals are key drivers.
Tip: list exact maker part numbers, approval stamps, and seating certificates in your RFQ. Ask for delivery lead time, commissioning, and training line items.
Spec and approvals
Fire-protected shells, air-support systems, and higher free-fall height ratings add cost. Capacity caps mean multiple boats on passenger ships.
Deck integration
Steelwork for stern ramps, foundations, power and control routing, sprinkler lines, and CCTV add install cost beyond list price.
Servicing regime
Annual and 5-year tasks under MSC.402(96) require authorized service providers and test loads. Budget travel and crane time at port.
Regulatory servicing: budgeting timeline
  • Annual: examination and operational tests by an authorized provider per MSC.402(96).
  • Five-year: thorough examination with on-load release test and proof load test per approvals and service manuals.
  • Ad-hoc: parts replacement for release gear, winches, wires, batteries, seals, spray nozzles, and engine serviceables.
Arrange service windows to coincide with port calls where cranes and test weights are available to reduce logistics cost.
Ten-year TCO worksheet
Enter your own numbers. The model totals purchase, install, and regulatory servicing. Widths are fixed so you can tune the layout.
Line Formula Value
CapEx: boats boat × qty —
CapEx: davits davit × qty —
Install and commissioning install —
Annual service × 10 years annual × 10 —
Five-year service × 2 five-year × 2 —
Ten-year TCO sum of all lines —
Scope
Boat type and capacity certificate, approvals, builder’s seating cert, release-gear make and model, engine model, accessories, paint and signage.
Install
Foundations, stern-ramp or davit steel, electrical and hydraulic runs, sprinkler air and water, CCTV, test loads, commissioning and crew handover.
Service
Annual and five-year tasks per MSC.402(96), travel, cranes, proof loads, spare parts kit, batteries, and documented service reports.
Currency and freight can swing pricing. For apples-to-apples comparison, capture Incoterms, delivery lead time, commissioning scope, and training hours.

Maintenance

What your crew can do weekly and monthly, what must be done annually and five-yearly, and who is authorized to do it.
Crew scope
Weekly and monthly inspections per the on-board maintenance manual. Keep gear in continuous readiness and record checks in the log and maker checklists.
Authorized service provider
Annual thorough examination and operational tests, five-year overhauls, release-gear proof loads, and any repair requiring disassembly are carried out by personnel certified by an Administration-authorized service provider or by the manufacturer. Issue a fitness-for-purpose statement and attach certificates.
Documentation
Keep maintenance manuals, checklists, and service records on board for the service life of the equipment. File signed reports for every visit and inspection.
Maintenance calendar
Interval Tasks Notes
Before sailing Visual readiness of all survival craft, rescue boats and launching appliances. Hooks and on-load release gear properly and completely reset. Required at all times. Record any deficiencies and corrective actions.
Weekly Check condition and stowage, test engine ahead and astern, verify steering, check release controls interlocks, verify lights and batteries, inspect falls visible sections and lashing, verify instructions posted and legible. Follow the on-board maintenance manual checklists. Log date, time, and person responsible.
Monthly Inspect lifeboats, rescue boats, davits and release gear in accordance with maker checklists. Check food, water, first-aid, anti-seasickness supplies by expiry. Verify painter, drain plugs, bailing, fire protection and air support systems where fitted. Record results and correct any defects. Replace expired consumables.
At drills Lower and recover as per procedures. For free-fall boats use either a free-fall with required operating crew or lower by secondary means then embark and maneuver. Emphasize safe speed and communications. Aim is crew familiarity and safety. Use maker procedures.
Annual Thorough examination and operational tests by certified personnel. Includes winches, brakes, limit switches, hooks and release mechanisms, structural elements, sprinkler or air support systems where fitted, maneuvering and power systems. Review onboard records and checklists. Provider issues a signed report and fitness-for-purpose statement with certification copies attached.
Five-year Overhaul and load tests. On-load release gear proof-loaded and function tested. Davit and winch load test typically at 1.1× weight of craft, full complement and equipment as applicable. Follow maker procedures under MSC.402(96). Renew or overhaul components as required.
Inspection
Inspect periodically with special attention to sections passing through sheaves and terminations. Lubricate per maker guidance.
Renewal
Renew when deteriorated or at intervals not more than five years, whichever is earlier. Turning end-for-end is no longer mandated, but not prohibited if the maker recommends it.
Drill safety
  • Plan and brief the drill. Pause to explain difficult steps. Keep speed conservative until teams are proficient.
  • For free-fall boats you may lower by secondary means without persons on board, then embark and maneuver in the water. This reduces injury risk during drills.
  • After testing the release system, ensure hooks are properly and completely reset and verified before recovery. Final turning-in is performed without any persons on board.
Records
Checklists and reports are signed by the person conducting the work and countersigned by the master or company representative. Keep them on board for the service life of the equipment.
Spare parts and tools
Maintain maker-listed spares and specialized tools on board. Ensure battery IDs, change-out dates and load-test records are posted in the boat and in the station binder.
Port-call prep
Align annuals and five-years with ports where cranes, test weights and approved providers are available to reduce logistics cost and delays.
Always align these routines with your flag and class instructions and the manufacturer’s latest manuals and bulletins.

Emergency Training

What must be drilled, how often, who must be trained, and the safe-drill options for lifeboats.
Drill cadence
Drill Minimum frequency Key notes
Abandon ship Every crew member: at least monthly If >25% of crew did not drill on board in the previous month, conduct drills within 24 hours after departure.
Fire drill Every crew member: at least monthly Combine with abandon-ship where practicable to test communications and command.
Lifeboat launch and manoeuvring Each lifeboat: at least once every 3 months Use safe-drill options for free-fall and on-load gear per IMO guidance.
Passenger muster (passenger ships) Before departure or immediately on departure All passengers must attend muster before the ship leaves or right after leaving berth.
Enclosed-space entry and rescue At least once every 2 months For designated personnel; keep checklists and gas-meter calibration records.
Free-fall lifeboats
During abandon-ship drills you may either perform a free-fall with only the operating crew on board, or lower the boat by the secondary means with no one on board, then embark and manoeuvre in the water. The aim is to cut injury risk while maintaining proficiency.
Davit-launched lifeboats
Follow maker procedures. Keep speed conservative. Ensure on-load release gear is function-tested per authorized service guidance and fully reset before hoisting. Use tag lines and clear commands.
General drill safety
Assign a responsible person to stop the evolution if hazards appear. Brief the team. Keep only essential personnel inside the boat during early-stage drills. Record deviations and corrective actions.
Crew roles and skills
Coxswain
  • Start checks and launch sequence
  • Boat handling and approach to rafts or persons in water
  • Man-overboard recovery and towing procedures
Engineer or mechanic
  • Dual-start demonstration and engine checks
  • Battery and radio charging arrangements
  • Spray, air-support and fire-protection systems where fitted
Boat crew
  • Painters, gripes and steering checks
  • Searchlight, signalling, and first-aid kit locations
  • Survival stores inventory and expiry checks
Crowd management
Masters, officers and designated ratings must complete crowd-management training. Personnel serving passengers must complete passenger-safety training.
Crisis management and human behaviour
For designated personnel on passenger ships. Emphasis on communication, decision-making and evacuation flow.
Familiarization
All crew must complete ship-specific familiarization before being assigned duties. Keep records available for inspection.
Records and evidence
  • Log date, time, scenario, participating crew and equipment used.
  • Attach checklists, photos if permitted, and corrective actions. Keep for the service life of equipment.
  • Passenger ships: maintain proof that all passengers attended muster before or immediately after departure.
Align drill plans with flag and class instructions, maker manuals, and port-state guidance. Use safe-drill options to reduce injury risk without reducing proficiency.

Additional References

International Maritime Organization (IMO) - Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention

United States Coast Guard (USCG) - Lifesaving Equipment

European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) - Lifesaving Appliances

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) - Marine Orders Part 25: Equipment - Lifeboats and Rescue Boats

Transport Canada - Lifesaving Equipment

By the ShipUniverse Editorial Team — About Us | Contact


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